Canada lauds Indian award for MP

The Canadian parliament on Wednesday welcomed the Indian honour for its member Deepak Obhrai. As parliamentary secretary to foreign minister Lawrence Cannon, Obhrai is the highest-ranking Indo-Canadian in the current government.

The Canadian parliament on Wednesday welcomed the Indian honour for its member Deepak Obhrai.

As parliamentary secretary (minister of state) to foreign minister Lawrence Cannon, Obhrai is the highest-ranking Indo-Canadian in the current government. He was given the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award last month by the Indian government for his contribution to promoting India-Canadian relations.

Speaking in the House, Kevin Sorenson, who is chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, hailed Obhrai for his leading role in the Indian diaspora in Canada and working "tirelessly" in promoting relations with India.

"Whether during the years of the Liberal government, when our relations with India were foolishly left to the side, or today, when our improved relations with India are blossoming into expanded and mutually profitable trade, the member for Calgary-East has been front and centre helping build the personal and professional links between the two countries," Sorenson said.

He said the award was "a testament to the value of your continued efforts" to promote Canada-India relations.